Naperville restaurants band together to raise money for Ukraine relief

Thirteen restaurants in downtown Naperville banded together to raise nearly $15,000 for World Central Kitchen's relief efforts in Ukraine.

Since the Russian invasion of Ukraine began in late February, World Central Kitchen - which sets up makeshift kitchens in communities in crisis - has served millions of meals to refugees escaping to western Ukraine, Poland, Romania, Moldova and Hungary.

The restaurants raised money based on a percentage of their total income on April 12.

Participating restaurants were Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream, Bev's, Catch 35, Cinnaholic, Empire Burgers & Brew, Firecakes Donuts, Hizemans, Naper Nuts & Sweets, Quiubo, Santo Cielo, SixtyFour Wine Bar & Kitchen, Sweet Home Gelato and The Lantern.

"We're proud that so many local chefs and diners stepped up to help this vital effort," said Deborah Newman, marketing representative for Water Street.